Zero Waste and Conversion Efficiencies of Various Technologies for Disposal of Municipal Solid Waste

Zero waste is a philosophy and a design principle of dealing with our waste stream for the 21st century. After reviewing the available information, the goal of zero waste from landfill is considered to be unachievable by using known and proven methods and approaches. The comparison of various technologies shows that the conversion efficiencies depend upon the type of system chosen for processing residual waste, and the best overall diversion rate of waste management system that can be achieved is about 71%. The maximum achievable overall diversion rate can be increased to approximate 92% if current environmental regulations to permit the routine use of the bottom ash or char for advanced thermal technologies.

Zero Waste and Conversion Efficiencies of Various Technologies for Disposal of Municipal Solid Waste

Zero waste is a philosophy and a design principle of dealing with our waste stream for the ~21st century. After reviewing the available information, the goal of zero waste from landfill is considered to be unachievable by using known and proven methods and ~approaches . The comparison of various technologies shows that the conversion efficiencies depend upon the type of system chosen for processing residual waste, and the best overall diversion rate of waste management system that can be achieved is about 71%. The maximum achievable overall diversion rate can be increased to approximate 92% if current environmental regulations to permit the routine use of the bottom ash or char for advanced thermal technologies.